According to Propertyclub, Tennessee has undergone significant population growth and transformation in recent years, thanks to its rich country music heritage and breathtaking Appalachian landscapes. However, this surge in population has also resulted in an upswing in crime rates within the state. Tennessee’s ranking among the top 10 most dangerous states in the US might be unexpected to many. Below, we present the most perilous places to reside in Tennessee.
10 Most Dangerous Cities in Tennessee
This Article Includes
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- Dyersburg
- Memphis
- Chattanooga
- Nashville
- Kingsport
- Knoxville
- Crossville
- Johnson City
- Murfreesboro
- Clarksville
1. Dyersburg
Dyersburg, a city with a population of 16,164, has earned the reputation of being the most dangerous city in Tennessee. Its crime rate sits at a staggering 244% higher than the national average. With a total crime rate of 8,073 per 100,000 residents, the chances of falling victim to any type of crime are 1 in 13. Violent crimes are prevalent in this city, disproportionately affecting its population. Moreover, property crimes occur at an even higher rate. In 2022, the most frequently reported crimes in Dyersburg were assault, theft, and burglary.
2. Memphis
Memphis, a city in Tennessee, stands out as one of the most violent cities in the state. In fact, it holds the dubious distinction of being the most dangerous large city in the entire United States. Situated on the far Western end of Tennessee, Memphis is home to a population of 633,104. The crime rate in this city is alarmingly high, with a staggering 7,913 incidents per 100,000 people. This figure is a daunting 237% higher than the national average. Shockingly, residents of Memphis face a 1 in 14 chance of falling victim to various types of crimes. Violent crime, in particular, is a grave concern, as evidenced by the reported 300 murders that took place in 2021 alone. Property crimes, such as burglary and vehicle theft, are also rampant, with an average of over 5,000 incidents occurring each year.
3. Chattanooga
Chattanooga, located in Hamilton County in the Appalachian foothills, is recognized as one of the most perilous areas in Tennessee. With a population of 181,100, the city exhibits a total crime rate of 7,716 per 100,000 people, a staggering 229% higher than the national average. Individuals residing in Chattanooga face a 1 in 16 probability of falling victim to various crimes. Disturbingly, the city reported 33 murders, 193 robberies, and 2,108 assaults in 2021.
4. Nashville
Nashville, the vibrant capital of Tennessee, has unfortunately not been immune to crime. Although it may not be the most dangerous city in the state, Nashville grapples with high crime rates. With a population of 689,447 and numerous visitors flocking to its renowned music venues and thriving nightlife, the city experiences a total crime rate of 5,229 per 100,000, which is a staggering 123% higher than the national average. Regrettably, residents face a 1 in 19 chance of falling victim to any form of crime. While even popular tourist areas are susceptible to pickpocketing and theft, instances of violent crime are largely confined to specific neighborhoods.
5. Kingsport
Kingsport, a city located in Sullivan and Hawkins counties, is home to a population of 55,442 individuals. The crime rate in Kingsport stands at 5,157 per 100,000 people, which is 120% higher than the national average. Living in Kingsport means facing a 1 in 20 chance of falling victim to any form of crime. As of 2021, the city reported 413 incidents of violent crimes and 2,102 cases of non-violent crimes.
6. Knoxville
Knoxville, the third-largest city in Tennessee, has a population of 190,740. The city has a total crime rate of 5,038 per 100,000 people, which is 115% higher than the national average. In 2021, there were 1,595 reported cases of violent crimes and 7,850 cases of property crimes in Knoxville. The most prevalent crimes in the city include assault, burglary, and vehicle theft.
7. Crossville
Crossville, situated in Cumberland County, boasts a population of 12,071. The crime rate in Crossville stands at 4,670 per 100,000, which is a staggering 99% higher than the national average and 48% higher than the Tennessee average. Unfortunately, residents in Crossville face a 1 in 22 chance of falling victim to any type of crime. Shockingly, in the year 2022 alone, there were two murders, 31 robberies, and 356 assaults reported in this area.
8. Johnson City
Johnson City, situated in eastern Tennessee, grapples with alarming crime rates and a prevalence of violence. With a population of 71,046, the city experiences a total crime rate of 4,477 per 100,000, surpassing the national average by 91%. Residents face a 1 in 23 likelihood of falling victim to various crimes. In the year 2021, Johnson City witnessed five homicides, 38 instances of robbery, and 179 cases of assault. Additionally, there were 2,282 reported incidents of property crimes during the same period.
9. Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro, located in Rutherford County, is among the most dangerous cities in Tennessee. With a population of 152,769, the city has a total crime rate of 2,973 per 100,000, which is 6% lower than the state average but 27% higher than the national average. In 2021, Murfreesboro recorded 633 violent crimes and 3,532 property crimes. Among these, there were seven murders, 53 robberies, and 453 assaults.
10. Clarksville
Clarksville, a city situated in northwestern Tennessee’s Montgomery County, is home to a population of approximately 166,722 individuals. With a total crime rate of 2,853 incidents per 100,000 people, Clarksville’s crime rate surpasses the national average by 22%. Residents of Clarksville face a 1 in 36 chance of falling victim to a crime of any nature. Notably, the city reported 633 cases of violent crimes and 3,532 incidents related to property crimes in the year 2021. Predominantly, crimes such as assault, theft, and burglary are the most prevalent within the area.
